🍩ED Decision Day(s)(Dec 12)

ED decisions are just starting to roll out so check out our section on how to navigate those. Also check out our favorite #admissionstiktoks from this week.

Good morning folks! Here’s the lineup today:

  1. Info Zone Refresh: New sessions from GTown and Emory!

  2. TikTok Thursday: Boston University

  3. Admission Blueprint: A junior’s guide to starting early on apps

TRIVIA
📚 Guess these alumni and their school!

This multi-talented alumnus is best known for playing the iconic character Don Draper in Mad Men. He attended this university before pursuing an acting career that earned him numerous awards, including an Emmy. Can you guess the school—and the alum?

INFO ZONE
New sessions from GTown and Emory!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

CMU Remote Information Session - Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 3:30 PM

(NEW) Emory College Virtual Admission Session - Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM

(NEW) Georgetown Virtual Information Session - Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM

Harvey Mudd General Engineering - recorded info session about Mudd’s only Engineering Degree

LINK LOUNGE
ICYMI: Great resources from juniors!

Pilot G2 Overachievers Grant - put your writing and community service to the test with this scholarship

California Community Colleges Dual Enrollment - get ahead and take community college classes as a high school student

(NEW) Test Prep Review - get free full-length practice tests for standardized tests

(NEW) Big Future Timeline - College Board’s official guide to help keep you on track for college apps

ADMISSION BLUEPRINT
Navigating your ED decisions

The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here—your Early Decision (ED) college decision is out. Whether the result brings tears of joy or disappointment, it’s important to approach it with perspective and a plan. Let’s walk through what to do in each scenario.

🎉 If You Get In: Celebrate, But Responsibly

  • Take a Moment to Reflect: This is a huge achievement! Celebrate your hard work and the support system that helped you get here—your family, friends, teachers, and counselors.

  • Stay Grounded: Remember, this is just the beginning. Focus on finishing senior year strong because colleges can rescind offers for a significant drop in grades or behavior issues.

  • Withdraw Other Applications: As part of the ED agreement, you’re committing to attend this school. Notify any other colleges you applied to and thank them for their consideration.

  • Plan Ahead: Start exploring resources like housing, financial aid forms, and any orientation events. Consider connecting with other admitted students to build your network early.

😔 If You Get Deferred: Keep Hope Alive

  • Understand What It Means: A deferral is not a rejection. The admissions team likely wants to review your application in the regular decision pool, possibly alongside mid-year grades or updated accomplishments.

  • Show Continued Interest: Send a letter of continued interest (LOCI) outlining why the school is still your top choice. Update them on any significant achievements since applying.

  • Focus on Other Applications: A deferral means your application process isn’t over yet. Put your energy into other schools to maximize your options.

💔 If You Get Rejected: It’s Not the End

  • Take Time to Process: Allow yourself to feel disappointed—it’s okay to grieve something you worked hard for. But don’t let this one decision define you.

  • Put It in Perspective: College admissions are incredibly competitive, especially for ED rounds. Many qualified applicants don’t get in, and this is not a reflection of your worth or abilities.

  • Refocus on Other Schools: There are countless other institutions where you can thrive. Use this time to craft thoughtful applications and show why you’re a great fit elsewhere.

  • Lean on Your Support System: Talk to friends, family, or mentors who can help you stay motivated and focused on what’s ahead.

🌟 Regardless of the Outcome

Remember, your future isn’t determined by one college decision. It’s about what you make of the opportunities in front of you. Whether you got in, were deferred, or were rejected, stay resilient, stay curious, and trust that the right path will unfold.

Good luck, and remember—you’ve got this! đŸ’Ș

TRIVIA ANSWER
Looking for the answer to our fun trivia question up at the top?

Answer: University of Michigan and Jon Hamm

DAILY DEADLINE UPDATES
Take that break but mind your deadlines!

In the Daily Deadlines section, we will keep you updated on upcoming deadlines in the college admissions world. Remember to not procrastinate and stay ahead of these deadlines!

Most ED/REA Decisions: December 12th-15th
Most RD Deadlines: January 1st - 6th

THE ARCHIVE
Looking for past mailings?

You can view all our previous posts at our website at https://scholarscoops.beehiiv.com

IDEAS COME FROM EVERYWHERE
Have an idea for the newsletter?

Is there a question you’ve been dying to have answered related to college admissions? Or, is there something just nagging you about Scholar Scoops that you want to see fixed soon? We want to hear from you. You can submit feedback at https://forms.gle/7Rj2eBCiauEc5oNV8. Thank you so much!